Tenerife: Hiking Tour in Anaga Mountains & Enchanted Forest

Key Points

• Full-day hiking experience lasting approximately 7 hours in Tenerife, Spain
• Visit UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Europe’s last ancient laurisilva forest over 10,000 years old
• Includes scenic viewpoints, a cave village, and a rewarding hike along water channels
• Picnic in a natural cave with spectacular canyon views and falcons flying overhead
• Guided by knowledgeable guides with personalized attention, limited to 8 travelers
• Pickup from the southeast coast makes logistics convenient and smooth

Discover Tenerife’s Anaga Mountains and Enchanted Forest

This hiking tour costs $149.78 per person and offers an immersive day exploring Tenerife’s natural beauty. The tour departs at 9:00 am and includes pickup from the southeastern coastal area. With an average booking notice of 32 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a full day of adventure amidst some of the island’s most iconic landscapes.

The highlights include walking through the ancient laurisilva forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which has thrived here for over 10,000 years. Visitors enjoy breathtaking viewpoints overlooking Mount Teide, a volcano that dominates Tenerife’s skyline. The entire experience is designed for moderate physical fitness levels but provides enough challenge to satisfy keen hikers.

Exploring the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Anaga

The tour begins with a scenic drive from the south coast of Tenerife to the Anaga region on the north coast. The first stop features spectacular views of Mount Teide from a panoramic viewpoint, setting the tone for the day’s natural wonders.

Next, participants walk through the green tunnel of the ancient laurisilva forest, an environment that has remained unchanged for more than 10,000 years. The lush, green canopy provides a cool, shaded experience, perfect for appreciating the island’s prehistoric vegetation. This part of the walk offers a gentle introduction to the terrain, with an easy to moderate trail.

Visiting the Clifftop Cave Village

After the forest stroll, the tour takes visitors to a cave village perched on cliff ledges. This unusual settlement offers a glimpse into how people historically adapted to the rugged landscape. The cliffside location provides stunning views of the coastline and deep canyon below, making it a memorable photo spot.

This stop combines cultural interest with scenic vistas, giving a well-rounded snapshot of Tenerife’s diverse environment. The cave village serves as a peaceful break before the more adventurous part of the tour begins.

The Water Channel Hike and Untamed Wilderness

The most striking feature of the tour is the hike along a water channel, which leads to some of Tenerife’s most untamed and rugged areas. The trail spans about 7 km, with an altitude change of around 230 meters, making it manageable for most hikers but still offering some physical effort. The path winds through harsh, untouched landscapes, providing a rare chance to see Tenerife’s wild side.

Hikers are equipped with hiking poles, flashlights, and helmets for safety and comfort. The trail’s terrain varies, including water channels, rocky sections, and narrow paths, ensuring an engaging experience. At the end of the hike, there’s an opportunity to relax and soak in the raw beauty of Tenerife’s mountains.

Picnic in a Natural Cave with Scenic Canyon Views

A key highlight is the picnic in a natural cave with spectacular views of the canyon below. During this break, sandwiches with ham and cheese, fresh juice, and sweets are provided. The setting offers a unique dining experience surrounded by dramatic landscapes and falcons soaring above.

This peaceful pause allows for nourishment and reflection on the day’s adventures, making it a memorable part of the tour. The natural cave provides shelter and an incredible vantage point for appreciating the surrounding wilderness.

Guide Excellence and Practical Details

The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who are praised for their friendly, encouraging, and informative approach. For example, guide Elena receives special mention for her delicious sandwiches and great support during the hike. The guides also provide photos and videos of the experience, so participants can keep memories of this remarkable day.

The group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and attentive guidance. The tour includes hiking poles, flashlights, helmets, and an air-conditioned vehicle for transport. Bottled water isn’t included, so travelers are advised to bring their own.

Logistics, Pacing, and Accessibility

The 7-hour tour balances a moderate hiking pace with enough time for sightseeing and breaks. The hiking segments last between 3.5 to 4.5 hours, making it suitable for most physically active visitors. The starting time of 9:00 am and pickup from southeastern Tenerife streamline planning.

The tour is especially recommended for cruise ship passengers with a day available in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, offering a convenient and comprehensive nature experience. The group size and guided approach allow for safety and support through varying terrains.

Realistic Expectations and Challenges

While the trail is rated as easy to moderate, several reviews mention the physical challenge involved. Some guests find parts of the hike demanding, especially in uneven terrain or on narrow paths. However, guides are praised for their encouragement and assistance, making even the more difficult sections manageable.

It’s advisable to wear long, light trousers and a warm top to adapt to changing weather conditions, which are common in mountain environments. The hike offers stunning vistas and a sense of achievement, making the effort worthwhile for most participants.

Customer Satisfaction and Notable Strengths

With a 5.0-star rating from 71 reviews and 99% recommending the tour, it’s clear this experience resonates with guests. Reviewers consistently highlight knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and the value for money. The delicious packed lunch and comfortable equipment add to the positive experience.

Many guests appreciate the personalized attention, the ability to explore hidden paths and viewpoints, and the opportunity to connect with Tenerife’s natural environment in a meaningful way. The small group setting enhances comfort and safety, allowing guides to tailor the experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This hiking adventure suits those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and enjoy mountain scenery and nature. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers, cruise visitors, and anyone seeking an active day in Tenerife. The tour’s emphasis on stunning views, cultural insights, and personalized guidance makes it a rewarding choice for many.

The challenging aspects are balanced by the beautiful scenery and expert support, ensuring a memorable and safe experience. Family groups with active members and nature enthusiasts will find this tour particularly appealing.

Tenerife’s Unique Mountain and Forest Experience

The full-day hike through Anaga Mountains and the enchanted laurisilva forest offers a comprehensive look at Tenerife’s natural treasures. The combination of scenic viewpoints, historic cave village, and untamed wilderness delivers a diverse and engaging adventure.

The guided hike provides interpretive insights about the island’s geology, wildlife, and landscape, enriching the overall experience. The picnic in a natural cave adds a special touch, making this tour more than just a walk—it’s a full sensory journey into Tenerife’s rugged beauty.

Final Thoughts on the Anaga Mountain Hike

For active travelers eager to explore Tenerife beyond the beaches, this tour offers a challenging but rewarding day immersed in nature. The expert guides ensure safety, comfort, and educational value, making it suitable even for those in their 70s who are reasonably fit.

The cost of $149.78 covers transportation, guided hiking, safety gear, and a delicious picnic, providing excellent value for such an immersive experience. While some parts can be physically demanding, the stunning scenery and sense of achievement make it all worthwhile.

If you want to see Tenerife’s wild landscapes and ancient forests, this hike in the Anaga Mountains delivers beautiful vistas, cultural insights, and memories that last well beyond the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness. Guests in their 70s have successfully completed it, but it’s best suited for active individuals comfortable with up to 4.5 hours of walking.

What should I bring for the hike?
While hiking poles, flashlights, and helmets are provided, it’s recommended to bring long, light trousers, a warm top, and plenty of water. The weather can change quickly, so dress accordingly.

How long does the hike last?
The hiking part lasts about 3.5 to 4.5 hours. The total tour duration is approximately 7 hours, including transportation, breaks, and sightseeing stops.

What is included in the price?
The tour features transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, snacks and picnic, hiking equipment, photos or videos, and a guidance from expert guides. Bottled water is not included.

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the tour is ideal for cruise visitors, especially those with a day in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, due to its convenient pickup and small-group experience.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor weather, participants are offered an alternative date or full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Less notice may result in no refund.

How many people participate in this tour?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and attentive guidance.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic viewpoints, ancient forest, cliffside cave village, and untouched wilderness along with expert guides truly makes this a memorable journey into Tenerife’s natural landscape.